Fuel Production from Cruise and Passenger Ship Waste

This project examines the feasibility of using the waste generated on cruise ships for producing fuels onboard, thereby attending two environmental problems of cruise ships. Five thermochemical processes for producing biofuel are reviewed: pyrolysis, hydrothermal liquefaction, gasification, hydrothermal gasification and arc-plasma gasification. These alternatives have been used for producing second generation biofuels but, to the best of our knowledge, they have not been considered for waste treatment or fuel production on ships. Our initial estimations indicate that all processes would reduce fuel costs, thus suggesting that initial investments would be recovered. Furthermore, public image of cruise companies will greatly benefit from inclusion of green technologies in their ships and additional savings could arise from reduced fines for pollution and reduced onshore discharge fees.